Patients and Antibiotics: The Role of Trust in Prescriptions
Patients often push their doctors to prescribe antibiotics unnecessarily, contributing to the growing issue of bacterial resistance. However, a recent study supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) has shed light on a surprising solution to this problem—increased trust between doctors and patients.
Bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics claim the lives of five million people annually, a number projected to double by 2050 according to the World Health Organization. While new therapies are being developed, the responsible use of antibiotics remains crucial in combating resistance.
Researchers at the Università della Svizzera italiana USI, led by communication researcher Peter J. Schulz, investigated the impact of trust on antibiotic prescriptions in general practice settings. They found that approximately 90% of antibiotics are prescribed by general practitioners (GPs), with some prescriptions being unnecessary due to patients requesting them for illnesses that antibiotics cannot treat.
The study, published in the Archives of Public Health, focused on the interaction between doctors and patients regarding antibiotic prescriptions. Surprisingly, the researchers discovered that increased trust in patients by doctors led to fewer requests for antibiotics. This finding highlights the importance of building trust in medical consultations to prevent unnecessary antibiotic use.
Factors influencing patients’ requests for antibiotics included a belief in susceptibility to illness, a preference for comprehensive treatment, gender (men requested antibiotics more frequently), and education level. The study emphasized the need for improved communication and education strategies, particularly for demographic groups that may be more likely to seek antibiotics unnecessarily.
To address the issue of unnecessary antibiotic consumption, delayed or back-up prescriptions have been suggested as a potential solution. These prescriptions are issued by doctors but can only be filled after a few days, allowing time for self-recovery from viral illnesses. Implementing such strategies could help reduce antibiotic misuse and promote more responsible prescribing practices.
Empowering patients to be more involved in medical decisions is key to combating antibiotic resistance. Trusting patients to accurately assess their own medical conditions and only take medication when necessary can help prevent the overuse of antibiotics. This approach aligns with efforts to promote patient-centered care and responsible antibiotic stewardship.
In conclusion, fostering trust between doctors and patients is essential in addressing the global challenge of antibiotic resistance. By empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health and promoting responsible antibiotic use, we can work towards a future where antibiotics remain effective in treating bacterial infections.
